The solution is clean, adaptable and is completely self-contained within a double or triple insulating glass unit (IGU). With no mechanical parts, this new shade solution isn’t subject to the same mechanical failures often seen with other integral blind solutions. The shade is activated in seconds by passing a small current through the conductive layers creating an electrostatic attraction between the ultra-thin shade and the glass surface. With extremely low power demands, the technology does not need to be hard-wired into the main power supply but can be battery-powered. The solar-powered recharging is already under development.

The shade is perfect for home today and tomorrow: it can be activated by a manual switch, remote control or through connected smart home technologies. Through automated control, the shade can be set up to respond to changes in external lighting or temperature conditions for a more comfortable environment. The shade can even be adapted to suit irregular-shaped glass in windows and doors.

Sheldon Davis, Vice President of Science, Technology and Innovation at Guardian Glass, comments: “This solution from Guardian is truly groundbreaking in terms of glass innovation – the technology is both new and unique to the glazing market. This new shading solution is cost effective compared to other in-glass shading solutions, has very low power consumption requirements and provides a very low solar heat gain when deployed.

We see huge potential for this solution primarily in residential windows, doors, privacy glass for bathrooms and bedrooms, skylights and entry doors, but eventually in commercial applications, as well. What’s equally important is that the solution will still allow our customers to meet all relevant building regulations and energy codes for glazed applications.

Alternative blackout shade products such as integrated blinds, external shades, roof window shades and internal shades [made-to-order curtains and blinds] suffer from high purchase and installation costs, are difficult to manufacture and have a reputation for failing and not providing full blackout functionality.

Our dynamic shading solution allows users to control the glass, which itself becomes more than a barrier between users and their external environment. Instead, it provides them with solar and glare control capabilities at the push of a button or via an app. Our solution also will create new opportunities for glass processors and installers in the future, who will be able to participate in a new, innovative shading solution that adds value to their own product offerings.”

Learn more about the dynamic shading

Guardian Glass is proceeding with plans to construct a pilot facility in Europe to launch the product, which is expected late in 2019.

Sheldon Davis is Vice President of Science and Technology for Guardian Glass. He is responsible for research and development of process and product technology including Guardian Glass’ next-generation of high value-added and specialty float products, and developing new product platforms that create step change performance for the company.